BirdLife appoint new Executive Director

BirdLife Malta announced the appointment of a new Executive Director, Steve Micklewright.

Micklewright worked for environmental organisations, including WWF, for more than 20 years and has been a very active environmental campaigner both through his work and in his community. 

BirdLife noted that during 2012, Micklewright was awarded the Lord Mayor's Medal in his native Bristol for his services to the community after his successful efforts to protect a woodland from development. 

The NGO said that while at WWF, Micklewright coordinated campaigns about marine protection and endangered species.

Micklewright said, "I hope I can bring the experiences I have had over the years to help BirdLife Malta to redouble its efforts to protect the birds and nature of the Maltese islands"

He added, "As an ecologist, I understand the importance of sound research in helping to make decisions about the natural environment. I am delighted to see that this is an approach that BirdLife Malta takes, whether it is developing conservation projects or making its case about bird hunting and trapping."

He studied botany and zoology at the University of Bristol and has a Masters Degree in conservation and ecology from University College London.

Recently, as Director of the Avon Wildlife Trust in Bristol, UK, Micklewright was responsible for inspiring people about the natural world.

"One of the biggest challenges we faced in Bristol was the lack of connection people, especially children, have with the natural world.  One of my priorities will be to build on the fantastic work BirdLife Malta does in involving children with nature."

With a general election in Malta imminent, Micklewright said he had no doubts about the immediate priorities of BirdLife Malta.

"There can be no doubt that the biggest challenge facing conservation in the Maltese islands is illegal hunting and trapping. After 50 years of working on this, this will remain our number one priority." 

BirdLife Malta, established in 1962, is Malta's oldest environmental NGO. It has been celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2012.  Micklewright is the organisation's fourth director.